We're updating this guideline with new legislation
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Early connections
Early connections are part of our nationally consistent early childhood approach, to support children younger than 9 and their families. Early connections can help you support your child’s development regardless of whether they’re eligible for the NDIS. They are funded by the NDIS and available when you have concerns about your child’s development, or if your child has a disability.
Early connections make sure you get the right supports and services to help with your child’s needs. We know that providing quality supports early in a child’s life can improve their long-term outcomes and opportunities.
Early connections can support your child’s development, your family’s wellbeing and help your child and family take part in the community.
You can get early connections through our early childhood partners. They can make recommendations about what early connections will be best for your child. Your child doesn’t need to be an NDIS participant.
They can get help with early connections even if they don’t have a diagnosis. Early connections could include things like getting information and connection to community and mainstream services, or help to apply to the NDIS.
When we say ’you’, we mean anyone responsible for the care of a child. You may be a parent, carer or legal representative.
When we say ‘child’, we mean children younger than 9.
When we say ‘we’ or 'our', we mean the NDIA.
Browse the guideline using the links or download a copy:
Find more resources about early connections in accessible formats on the booklets and factsheets page .